Alumni News Summer 2014 4
Among the Stars
Griffins Athletics - Banner of a Year
16
A Downtown Campus Strategy
26
Passion for Palliative Care
Music alumnus Jeremy Raymond lands key role in Star Trek film
8
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT recently our university completed
a roadmap to the transition ahead. It started
and as an alum, you experienced it firsthand.
a comprehensive strategic planning
when we began offering university degrees
It defines us as an undergraduate university
process.
in 2006, continued as we achieved university
with a distinctive focus on teaching and learn-
of an Integrated Strategic Plan that will take
status in 2009, and now describes who we
ing informed by the research and scholarly
us forward as an institution and provide clear
will be as MacEwan University.
work of our faculty.
The plan is a bold statement on how we seek
The changes we are making as an institution
This transformative plan expresses the com-
to combine the best of who we are with who
call for us to change how we interact with our
mitments we made as a university when we
we want to become. Our student-centered,
external community, including our alumni.
crafted our University Pillars last year. It is
teaching-focused culture is well known,
While we have an amazing group of graduates
The consultation led to the writing
direction over the next five years.
macewan news
M 2
IT’S EASY BEING GREEN!
MACEWAN ALUMNI NEWS
Get your paperless copy of M today. If you are interested in receiving M only by email, please send us your name and email address at alumni@macewan.ca. Thank you!
We welcome your feedback and comments. All correspondence and inquiries regarding advertisements and story ideas should be directed to:
TRACI TOSHACK Senior Manager, Alumni Relations and Services toshackt@macewan.ca 780-497-4273
FRONT COVER
MAILING ADDRESS: Alumni Relations and Services MacEwan University City Centre Campus P.O. Box 1796 Edmonton, AB Canada T5J 2P2
Jeremy Raymond, Music, 2002
CONNECT WITH US ON LINKEDIN:
MacEwan University Alumni We are committed to environmental responsibility. Call us at 780 - 497 - 4273 or send us an email at alumni@macewan.ca and we’ll make sure that your record is updated
M is printed using vegetable-based ink, on paper following strict Forestry Stewardship Council standards
and those who identify with us from some
reputation is because of you – our alumni.
leaders and influencers in our community.
point over the last 40 plus years, we know
You are our greatest advocates. Employers
We hope that you will be willing to take a
that we have not been as active as we might
like our graduates, and you have been terrific
place of leadership as MacEwan University
have been in engaging you with the continu-
ambassadors for the institution. We appreci-
looks towards its 50th anniversary.
ing life of your institution. We are going to
ate that more than you know.
change that. We want you to participate in our future. As We know that our reputation in the commu-
always we are grateful for every student you
nity is very positive and that it is currently
send our way – some of them are now your
driving our new student growth. Much of that
children! We are looking to you as emerging
david atkinson, President
MacEwan University
ALUMNI & FRIENDS You and a guest are cordially invited to a Night of Theatre
M 3
Thursday, November 6, 2014 Centre for the Arts & Communications 10045 - 156 Street (Main Foyer) Reception: 6:30pm Performance: 7:30pm RSVP to alumni@macewan.ca Phone: 780-497-4273
Based on the hit DreamWorks film and the incredible true story that inspired it, CATCH ME IF YOU CAN is the high-flying, splashy musical that tells the story of Frank W. Abagnale, Jr., a teenager who runs away from home in search of the glamorous life. With nothing more than his boyish charm, a big imagination and millions of dollars in forged checks, Frank successfully poses as a pilot, a doctor and a lawyer - living the high life and winning the girl of his dreams. But when Frank's lies catch the attention of FBI agent Carl Hanratty, Carl chases Frank to the end...and finds something he never expected.
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
macewan sports
M 4
BANNER OF A YEAR Lesley Koopman (right) and Vanessa Trofimenkoff (left) crossed the finish line 0.36 seconds apart – the closest finish in national championship history.
Griffins add eleven new championships to their name
Women’s basketball also had a special team
volleyball), Kim Bolin (women’s volleyball),
this season. Earning the ACAC championship
Sydney Lewko (women’s curling) and Madi-
title and punching their ticket to nationals,
son Porisky (women’s volleyball) were named
the ladies brought home the national bronze
Academic All-Canadians, combining league
medal, as well as the Fair Play Award for
all-star and academic honours standings.
exceptional sportsmanship. The women’s volleyball team was honoured at Men’s cross-country running, men’s soccer,
the year-end banquet with the Cathryn Heslep
women’s golf, men’s golf and women’s curling
Academic Team of the Year Award for their team
it’s hard to miss all the new championship
also qualified for the CCAA championships,
GPA of 3.38, edging out the men’s hockey team.
banners hanging in the gym this spring.
representing the Griffins on the national stage. it’s raining all-canadians
In the 2013/14 season, the Griffins brought home 11 of them, making this an exceptional
record-setting performances
Earning an All-Canadian honour, one of the
year for MacEwan University athletes.
Records are meant to be broken, and the
most prestigious awards in Canada, requires
The buzz that’s been generated has paved the
Griffins set several new records this year.
a student athlete to be selected as one of
way for the Griffins’ continued climb in the
The season began with the women’s golf
the best players in their respective sport.
world of interuniversity sports. This season
team becoming most successful team in
In 2013/14, the Griffins earned more
was an emotional ride, filled with record-
ACAC history, capturing their third
All-Canadian honours than ever before with
setting milestones, split-second finishes,
consecutive ACAC championship,
nine award winners.
nerves-of-steel moments and absolute elation
bringing the team’s total up to seven. Decorated Griffins this season were Megan
with an Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) and national championship gold
Two records fell to the women’s cross-country
Wood (women’s basketball), Erika Vecchio
medal rush, and the honour of having three
squad when Trofimenkoff and Koopman
(women’s soccer), Nicola Weber (women’s soc-
Griffins inducted into the ACAC hall of fame.
crossed the finish line 0.36 seconds apart –
cer), Lesley Koopman (women’s cross-country),
the closest finish in national championship
Vanessa Trofimenkoff (women’s cross-country),
national championship triumphs
history. It was also the first time an institu-
James Charpentier (men’s golf), Megan Vermil-
Three Griffins teams and two individual
tion captured the top two podium positions.
lion (women’s golf), Ryan Matowe (men’s soccer), and Marcus Ernewein (men’s volleyball).
athletes found their way onto the national championship podium.
Ryan Matowe of the men’s soccer team used his position in offense to score a total of ten
exceptional leadership on the sidelines
The women’s soccer team turned in an
goals in nine consecutive games, breaking
Great teams are built by great leaders, and this
undefeated season, the first in CCAA history,
former Griffin Ammon Hoefs’ record of nine
year five Griffins coaches were honoured as
to claim MacEwan’s first women’s soccer
goals in four consecutive games.
coaches of the year.
Not to be outdone by his men’s soccer team-
Cam Leverman of men’s soccer took his
One year ago, the men’s curling team lost the
mate, Jerad Uytterhagen set the ACAC record
team from a disappointing absence from the
national final to cross-town rivals, the NAIT
for goals in a single match with eight, taking
playoffs one year ago to the ACAC champion-
Ooks. This season, however, they made no
the record set by former Griffins, John Pino
ships this year. His efforts were recognized
mistakes, going undefeated to earn the
and David Letourneau, who each had seven
not only by the ACAC but also on the national
Griffins their first men’s curling national
goals in a game.
scene when he was named the men’s soccer
national championship title.
National Coach of the Year.
championship title in Sault Ste. Marie, ON. academic success
Lesley Koopman and Vanessa Trofimenkoff
Achieving both athletic and scholastic success
Other Griffins coaches honoured with ACAC
finished in the gold and silver medal positions in
is the ultimate goal of any student athlete.
Coach of the Year nods were Lindsay McAl-
the 5km women’s cross-country race that will be
This season the Griffins fielded some of
pine (women’s hockey), Rob Poole (women’s
remembered as one of the CCAA national cham-
MacEwan University’s brightest and most
basketball), Eric Magdanz (men’s basketball)
pionships’ closest and most thrilling finishes ever.
dedicated students. Zach Brown (men’s
and Tom Kitagawa (curling).
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 5
griffins teams earning acac championship banners this season: women’s golf, men’s golf, men’s cross-country, women’s soccer, men’s soccer, women’s basketball, women’s indoor track and women’s curling.
griffins teams earning acac medals: men’s volleyball hockey
(silver), women’s
(silver), men’s curling (bronze)
and women’s volleyball
toasts of the griffins family
rookies who turned heads
competitive intercollegiate sport led to
The end-of-season awards honour the
Cassidy Kinsella (women’s volleyball) and Ryan
the beginning of the storied history of the
best-of-the-best within the Griffins family.
Benn (men’s hockey) took the ACAC by storm
Griffins program in 1974.
Vanessa Trofimenkoff was honoured as the
this season and were each named their sport’s
Female Athlete of the Year after earning the
respective Rookie of the Year award winners.
Dr. Lana Common was the first Griffins stu-
women’s cross-country Player of the Year
Kinsella was instrumental in leading her team
dent athlete inducted into the ACAA Hall of
award, as well as ACAC individual gold and
to an ACAC bronze medal as an outside hitter,
Fame. Her volleyball career (‘93-95, ‘96-98)
CCAA silver medals. She was also named
while Benn was an offensive wizard, finishing
is virtually unparalleled. She was a four time
Athletics Alberta Junior Cross-country
fourth in regular season scoring with 18 goals
all-star, academic All-Canadian and CCAA
Runner of the Year.
and 19 assists. He also led his team in playoff
all-tournament team member. She was also
points with one goal and three assists.
an All-Canadian and the Griffins Female Athlete of the Year, receiving both honours
Curler Jordan Steinke charted new ice, becom-
macewan sports
M 6
(bronze).
ing the first Griffin to repeat as Male Athlete
called to the hall
on three separate occasions. Lana was also
of the Year. Steinke skipped his team to a na-
The Alberta Colleges Athletic Association
honoured by delivering the inductees’ address
tional championship title with an undefeated
(ACAA) will celebrate its first class of Hall
at the ceremony.
record and was named the national champi-
of Fame inductees, and the Griffins will see
onship tournament’s top skip. Following the
three of their own honoured. Gerry Couzens
out with a bang
event, he rejoined his world curling tour team
was inducted in the coach category. As a head
Many of the Griffins teams will move into the
and earned a semi-final placing at the Grande
coach for the Griffins women’s basketball
Canada West Universities Athletic Associa-
Prairie, Alberta event.
team from 1992-2000, Couzens experienced
tion (CWUAA) next season, with men’s and
only one losing season—his first. In an eight-
women’s soccer, cross-country, basketball
ladies rule the player of the
year run, Couzens guided the Griffins to a
and volleyball all making the move. Men’s and
year honours
208-78 record.
women’s hockey, curling, golf and indoor track will retain their status in the ACAA.
It would be fair to call it the year of the Griffins women when it came to major award
Bob Bennett entered the Hall of Fame as a
winners. Griffins women boasted five ACAC
builder. He was officially the first admin-
Player of the Year awards: Megan Vermillion
istrator in Griffins athletics and in 1973
(women’s golf), Vanessa Trofimenkoff (wom-
presented an application to join the ACAA.
en’s cross-country), Krysta Hilker (women’s
Bennett’s foresight and belief that what
curling), Megan Wood (women’s basketball)
were then Grant MacEwan College students
and Sasha Lutz (women’s hockey).
deserved the opportunity to be involved in
ALUMNI RELATIONS AND SERVICES
You’re going places. TAKE US WITH YOU.
Alumni Relations and Services congratulates you on your graduation!
FACILITY RENTALS Take advantage of reduced facility rental rates when holding meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, or social activities at the university. A wide variety of facilities, equipment and services are available through MacEwan University Conference and Event Services.
We care about what you do after MacEwan and want to share your success and stories with other alumni and students. Our grads aspire and, in turn, inspire. In return, we offer benefits and services specifically for you.
MEMBERS ADVANTAGE – TICKET AND DISCOUNT PROGRAM You can save on many attractions, movies, entertainment and sporting events across Alberta.
We’re rolling out the red carpet. You deserve it.
Don’t forget your VIP pass. Exclusive savings for our members. DISCOUNTS ON TRAVEL Receive discounts on specially designed travel packages throughout the year. MOVIE TICKETS Purchase discounted movie tickets for Cineplex Odeon Theatres from the SAM Centre at City Centre Campus. THEATRE TICKETS Receive exclusive discounts on live theatre tickets through Broadway Across Canada. HOME AND AUTO INSURANCE Your alumni status entitles you to preferred group rates on your home and auto insurance through TD Insurance Meloche Monnex.
concerning matters related to alumni programming. It plays a vital role in developing the alumni community and contributing to the success of MacEwan University. Interested in becoming a council member? Contact us! VOLUNTEER OR MENTOR Come back to campus to share your experience and expertise with current students, or give back by volunteering at various campus events. FREE EVENTS Take advantage of alumni events and activities throughout the year, including the annual Night of Theatre and a variety of speakers and presentations.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Alumni qualify for a 15% discount on all professional development courses (non credit) through the School of Business.
LOOKING FOR A JOB? Alumni are welcome to view numerous job opportunities posted by employers seeking MacEwan University graduates.
The privilege is ours. Services just for you.
Alumni who graduated within the past two years can make an appointment with the Career Services Coordinator to discuss their job search or to submit resumes and cover letters for a free critique.
“M” ALUMNI NEWS Produced three times a year, M showcases MacEwan University alumni and provides articles about the university, programs, and faculty.
GOING BACK TO SCHOOL? Educational Advising If you are thinking about returning to school, our educational advisors can help. For alumni who decide on graduate school or professional education, there are free programs and services available through our Graduate School Liaison.
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS Each year, MacEwan University recognizes the outstanding achievements of alumni for their contribution to our community. If you know of any deserving alumni, please contact us.
HEALTH AND LIFE INSURANCE Receive preferred rates on Health and Dental insurance through Manulife Financial.
ALUMNI PROGRAM CHAPTERS Alumni Chapters are an excellent way to stay connected with your fellow graduates, build social and professional relations, and work together to make an impact on your industry and the community.
PREFERRED GYM MEMBERSHIP RATES MacEwan University Sport and Wellness grants reduced membership rates to all alumni.
ALUMNI ADVISORY COUNCIL The Alumni Advisory Council provides alumni with the opportunity to offer input and advice
Keep in touch. ALUMNI RELATIONS AND SERVICES (780) 497-4273 Email: alumni@MacEwan.ca MacEwan.ca/Alumni Facebook: MacEwan Alumni LinkedIN: MacEwan University Alumni
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 7
macewan arts news
M 8
AMONG THE STARS Jeremy Raymond’s feature role in J. J. Abrams’ 2012 blockbuster film, Star Trek: Into Darkness, showcased his skills alongside some of the biggest names in the industry.
photo courtesy of paramount
Music Alumnus Lands Key Role in Star Trek Film
While many of the doctors’ prognoses failed
learned how to handle himself and developed
to materialize, Raymond began to experience
the self-control needed to avoid violence.
difficulties around age 12 with his primary
“Martial art was the first sport that I was really
teeth not falling out properly, requiring him
any good at,” he says. “Natural athletes never
to undergo several invasive dental surger-
had to work hard to succeed. I had to learn
ies over many years to come. “The physical
through failure and to love that failure.”
impact and the recovery time needed after
Raymond’s dedication to combat sports has
that first major operation was far more than
built up his confidence tremendously over the
I expected,” he says. “It forced me to quickly
years, with his consequent physical develop-
accept the realities of my predicament.”
ment being instrumental in landing many acting roles.
it is through adversity that the true quality of one’s character is often
Though his condition provided several physi-
revealed, as is demonstrated by
cal challenges, the psychological impact was
Fresh out of high school, Raymond’s ever-
professional actor jeremy raymond’s
particularly significant. After being treated by
increasing passion for music and singing
(music ’02) story. Having been born with
doctors as a subject of medical interest and
brought him to Edmonton, where he would
a rare skeletal condition that made him an
enduring the comments made by schoolyard
spend the next two years immersed in the
outcast as a child, Raymond’s exposure to
bullies, Raymond could not help but feel that
MacEwan University Music program.
music, acting and martial arts allowed him to
he was an outsider. As a result, he became
The experience was indeed eye-opening,
discover the incredible depths of his personal
adept at burying his feelings as a survival
which proved to be incredibly beneficial for
potential. His talent, character and ceaseless
mechanism, and consequently, his self-confi-
the young artist. “I learned to pretty much set
desire to grow as an artist have made him truly
dence suffered. However, through his exposure
my watch by things going haywire,” he jokes.
stand out on both stage and screen. Based out
to music, acting and martial arts, Raymond be-
“Any kind of artistic project has elements of
of Vancouver, this native of Cranbrook, B.C.
gan the process of discovering that what made
unpredictability, and the university really
recently landed a feature role in J. J. Abrams’
him different also made him extraordinary.
taught us how to roll with that. Whether it was tracking down players for a coffee-house
2012 blockbuster film, Star Trek: Into Darkness, showcasing his skills alongside some of
Raymond discovered his love for both music
performance, organizing rehearsals or
the biggest names in the industry.
and acting in junior high school, high school,
dealing with some kind of last-minute crisis,
and became the self-described “showiest
we learned how to adapt and get it done.”
Raymond’s condition is called cleidocranial
concert band drummer ever.” School recitals
dysostosis, a rare skeletal disorder primarily
would often see him introducing songs while
Raymond is quick to praise the talents and
characterized by developmental irregularities
impersonating Ringo Starr, a performance
teaching style of music instructor Charles
of the cranium and collarbone, though these
that went over so well that “Ringo” would
Austin. Describing Austin’s musical ability as
can be accompanied by other bone irregulari-
introduce even the non-Beatles songs. With
a mastery of technique and theory, Raymond
ties as well. As an infant, Raymond’s skull
his confidence on the rise, it was through his
was inspired by the way his instructor would
was essentially the size of an adult’s, and
high school choir that Raymond would truly
enter class and sit at the piano, gradually
his hips developed out of alignment, which
find his musical niche. “My sister said they
silencing the roomful of students as he played.
required the use of braces to correct.
were really short on males, so I auditioned.
“To have a teacher model simple mastery
Much to my surprise, people I respected
really struck me, both as a musician and an
Despite the fact that he was able to run and play
were saying that I was good! This was a
actor. We give gold statues to actors for doing
like other children, periodic visits to see medical
sharp change in my identity, and I started
the same thing: simplicity delivered effectively.
specialists in Toronto, the United States and even
singing and playing with any group I could
I got a lesson in that at MacEwan.”
periodic visits to see medical specialists in Toronto,
just to engage with the audience.” After graduating, Raymond was determined
the United States and even Israel always served as a reminder of just how different Raymond was from
While music and acting provided Raymond a
to pursue his dreams of professional acting.
his schoolmates. “Since it’s such a rare condition,
channel for expression, he also developed an
After being turned down by every theatre
even the leading specialists didn’t really have a lot
early fascination with martial arts, which was
company in Edmonton, he remarkably landed
of experience with it,” explains Raymond. “As a
inspired by his desire to defend himself from
a feature role in 2004 in a movie entitled The
result, some of these doctors painted a really grim
bullies and to find an outlet for his frustra-
Incredible Mrs. Ritchie. Working alongside
picture of what I should expect.”
tions. After some judo training, Raymond
Hollywood luminaries James Caan and Gena
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 9
discern which one to attach the microphone to. We all kept quiet, and it was pretty funny watching him try to figure it out.” One remarkable element of his experience was the level of secrecy surrounding the making of the film. With paparazzi constantly attempting to catch a glimpse of anything to do with the enormously popular film franchise, Raymond was covered in blankets or shielded by umbrellas anytime he left one room to go to another. This secrecy continued well after filming had been completed, with Raymond legally bound to not reveal his place among the cast. “For a year and a half I couldn’t tell anybody,” he recalls. “When friends would talk about being excited for the movie, I’d chuckle to myself. I was able to tell Mom and Dad, but I really looked forward to surprising people.” Since the release of Star Trek: Into Darkness, Raymond has been busy working back in Vancouver. Many of his roles have been for darker works, such as the IMAX concert film, Metallica Through the Never, an episode of NBC’s Psych, and a movie entitled The Happy Face Killer starring David Arquette. “What interests me is just doing the work,” explains Raymond, echoing the mentality of such acclaimed character actors as Anthony
macewan arts news
M 10
Photo provided by Triumph St. Photography
Hopkins and Gary Oldman. “The other day I was working on a film in Squamish, B.C.
Rowlands, Raymond’s performance earned
going to be computer generated, but then
It was really emotional, draining stuff, but I
him a Gemini nomination for Best Supporting
they changed the idea and were in search of
just love my job.”
Actor in a Dramatic Production or Mini-
an actor with a unique look. When J. J. saw
Series. After relocating to Vancouver, the next
me, he apparently yelled ‘That’s the guy!
It has been a long journey of self-discovery
several years saw Raymond paying his dues
Get me him!’” Within a few weeks, Raymond
for this extremely talented and driven artist,
through small bit parts while tirelessly honing
was flown down to Bad Robot Studios to be-
but what is perhaps most remarkable about
his craft. Then one day in early 2012, he got
gin filming what would be one of the biggest
Raymond is his ability to embrace what
one heck of a phone call.
films of the year.
makes him unique: “I’ve really learned that
J. J. Abrams noticed Raymond purely by
After meeting with Abrams and other key
from the norm made me stand out from the
chance when Abrams’ father, Gerald W.
players, Raymond learned that his role was
crowd.” His refusal to be defined by his physi-
Abrams, used his son’s studio to edit footage
more than just a small bit part. He was not
cal difference makes it clear that he is no lon-
for a film. The senior Abrams had produced
only to play one character but to provide
ger the exception; he is simply exceptional.
a film in which Raymond had a small role,
the model for an entire alien race known as
and Raymond’s 90-second scene caught the
Nibirans that were all to be designed around
attention of the Star Trek director, who was
Raymond’s facial features. “There was one
seeking inspiration for an alien race in his
day where a big group of us Nibirans were
upcoming film. “The Nibirans were originally
standing together and the audio guy couldn’t
it is ok to be different. Being an outsider
An educational and enlightening feature sharing facts and figures about MacEwan University.
Convocation
The graduation cap is called a
Honour Cords are worn by graduates who have received honours standing in their academic studies Honour Stoles represent significant academic accomplishment and are worn by Bachelor of Arts Honours recipients.
Maroon
MacEwan University graduates wear regalia based on tradition that carries symbolic meaning about credentials earned and areas of study:
Black
diploma, certificate and post-diploma certificate graduates
doctor (faculty), master (faculty) bachelor (faculty and baccalaureate graduates) and applied degree (faculty and baccalaureate graduates).
silver and white vee-stoles are worn by certificate and diploma graduates
Baccalaureate degree hoods are black with royal blue interior. The degree is represented by the trim of the hoods:
White
Chamois
Drab
Gold
Apricot
Crimson
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Child & Youth Care
Bachelor of Commerce
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Bachelor of Communication Studies
Drab
Bachelor of Applied Business Administration Accounting and Bachelor of Applied International Business and Supply Chain Management
Crimson
Bachelor of Applied Communications in Professional Writing
Peacock
Bachelor of Applied Human Service Administration
comes from the Latin word convoco, which means to call together by summons
Applied Degree hoods are royal blue with a chevron and trim that represents the discipline to which the applied degree pertains:
June
students will graduate at the spring 2014 ceremony, representing 54 degree, diploma and certificate programs
1973 160
18
MacEwan’s first convocation was held in 1973 with 160 graduates representing 18 certificate and diploma programs.
alumni news summer
19 2008
The University presented its first Bachelor of Arts degree.
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 11
MAD HATTER’S GALA 2014
macewan news
A NIGHT in MONACO-MONTE CARLO Another successful Mad Hatter’s Gala presented by Mediaco wrapped up on April 26 with more than 600 guests in attendance. Guests enjoyed an evening of stunning Mediterranean glamour and sumptuous cuisine as they celebrated an era defined by aristocracy and monarchy. As the gala welcomed guests to the bright lights and red carpet, the real stars of the night were the many MacEwan University students who will benefit from the scholarships and awards supported by the money raised through the generosity of our guests and sponsors. Thank you to everyone for making the 2014 gala a wonderful success.
02
01
03
05
04
M 13
06
07
08
01 - h ats
off to all the volunteers who made the
night a great success .
02 - 2014 honorary mad hatters, greg christenson and jill didow. 03 - h ats
came in all shapes and sizes at this
year ’ s gala .
04 - a llan
gilliland , program chair , music
05 - g uests
07 - g uests
had the opportunity to rev it up in the
race car simulator .
enjoying a glamorous night out in
monte carlo style .
06 - p resident
dr . david atkinson , and his wife
08 - m usic alumna allison nichols with “the calls ” performing at this year ’ s gala .
last
terry atkinson .
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
10
09
11
13
12
14
15
17
18
macewan news
M 14
16
09 - left
to right : cameron mccoy , president of the
students ’ association of macewan unversity , fabjola gera , bachelor of commerce brigjilda gera .
‘14
with
10 - m egan dart, bachelor of applied communications in professional writing ‘08 (right) with sister beth dart (left). 11 - g urvinder
bhatia with wife aimee hill enjoying
the slots in the casino royale .
12 - t his
year ’ s best ladies ’ and men ’ s hat went to
ali ghan
( left )
for his dapper white and black
striped top hat , and susan jackson
for
13 - c urrent school of business allard mowat , wife wife sandy mowat .
chair , dave
her gold egyptian - inspired
14 - this
year ’ s
“monto
( right ) headpiece .
carlo ” theme inspired many
stunning hats and fascinators .
15 - the 2014 mad hatter’s gala presented by mediaco treated guests to an evening of glamorous decor and entertainment in support of students.
16 - g uests
came prepared for some fun at the gala ’ s
casino royale .
17 - v ice president, student services, cathryn heslep 18 - guests came out in fine fashion to support students.
ALUMNI RELATIONS AND SERVICES
sign up. To date 12,000 people have registered to receive our electronic magazine in lieu of a printed copy. Together we have saved about 1,296,000 sheets of paper per annum. That's equivalent to saving 155 trees and over 6 tonnes of CO2 every year! Join the green movement... save a tree... register today to receive our e-magazine!
SO FAR WE’VE SAVED: M 15
155 TREES
1100.9L 1.13kg 34.49kg 0.137m3 170kWh WATER
AIR POLUTION
GHG
LANDFILL SPACE
ELECTRICITY
Environmental savings based on: 12,000 electronic submissions per issue 36 pages | 3 issues per year = 1,296,000 sheets of paper | 1 tree = 8,333 sheets of paper
To activate your e-magazine: visit our website at macewan.ca/alumni MacEwan.ca/Alumni alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
GREEN IMPACT GOES INTERNATIONAL
macewan news
M 16
Students, staff, and faculty coming together to make a difference
In January 2014, 22 student volunteers were trained to act as Green Impact Project Assistants (GIPAs) and then matched with the teams. This provided teams with extra enthusiasm and capacity to complete their actions while allowing the students to develop their leadership, communications and project management skills. Additionally, the Office
2013, macewan university’s of-
At MacEwan University, staff and faculty
of Sustainability provided ongoing support
fice of sustainability, in partnership with
were encouraged to organize their own Green
to teams by hosting weekly drop-in sessions,
the students’ association of macewan
Impact teams that were each made up of a
sending bi-weekly email updates and regularly
university (samu),
whole department, staff on a specific building,
updating a complementary Green Impact
international institution to take part in Green
or a group of people who work closely together.
resources site.
Impact, an environmental engagement pro-
Teams were then given access to the Green Im-
gram run by the National Union of Students
pact online workbook containing various actions
On March 14, 2014, teams were asked to
in colleges, universities, and community
they could implement in their areas. Each action
submit their online workbooks. Following that,
organizations across the United Kingdom.
was worth a set number of points based on
GIPAs who had received additional training
This intiaitive aims to empower people to
perceived impact rather than ease of implemen-
were assigned to teams (different from those
reduce the environmental impacts of their
tation. Teams were encouraged to work through
they had previously assisted) to review the
day-to day-operations while encouraging
their workbooks at their own paces, upload
provided evidence and validate the submis-
friendly competition and providing recogni-
evidence to show that actions were completed
sions. This auditing process is vital, as it adds
tion for participants’ efforts.
and earn as many points as they could.
an additional level of accountability to the
in october
signed up to be the first
program and verifies the teams’ final results.
small, tangible and practical change to
University is positioning itself to be a leader
Based on the confirmed number of actions com-
practices, policies and communications
in this area. There are now 15 additional
pleted, teams will receive one of four awards at
within the Green Impact teams.
non-UK higher education institutions that
the Green Impact Awards ceremony: ‘working towards,’ bronze, silver, or gold. Special awards
are interested in adopting the versatile Green • It is anticipated that six teams will receive
Impact model and are looking to MacEwan
will also be presented to those who demonstrat-
bronze awards, six will receive silver awards,
University’s pilot to learn best practices for
ed leadership and innovation in sustainability.
and two will receive gold awards at the
international implementation.
Green Impact Awards ceremony. MacEwan University’s Office of Sustainabil-
MacEwan University has much to be proud of following its Green Impact pilot:
• Strategic goals outlined in our Campus
ity has signed up to take part in the program
Sustainability Plan are being fulfilled, and
again for the 2014/2015 academic year and is
points will be contributed towards the uni-
looking forward to recruiting more students,
recruited that were made up of 85 staff and
versity’s 2014 application for Sustainability,
staff and faculty in the fall to help improve the
faculty members in areas of the university
Tracking, and Assessment Rating System
university’s Green Impact.
that represent approximately 305 people.
(STARS) certification.
• A total of 14 Green Impact teams were
• Over the course of the pilot, there were 694 actions undertaken, each of which was a
As the first international institution to successfully pilot and deliver the program, MacEwan
M 17
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
A DOWNTOWN CAMPUS STRATEGY
macewan news
M 18
MacEwan Campuses are Coming Together for the Arts the march
12 announcement of provincial
funding of
$30 million for the construc-
performing arts. The new building will enable
institutional reserves to pay for the estimated
the university to enhance current programming
capital cost, along with $9 million in financing
and meet the enrolment demands anticipated
for the parkade and retail construction. Thus far,
for the future. The target date for delivery of the
the fundraising campaign has not yet begun, but
Centre for Arts and Culture is September 2017.
the university will be seeking interested partners.
Proceeds from the sale of the west and south
south campus set to move
campuses will be combined with $25 million
MacEwan University’s downtown campus
from an institutional fundraising campaign.
strategy has been part of a long-term strate-
An additional $33 million will come from
gic plan designed to create efficiencies and
“This signals a turning point for MacEwan University. Our downtown campus strategy
tion of the centre for arts and culture
brings all our students together to share in the resources of our City Centre Campus and
building signaled a significant step forward in
the richness of the emerging arts district. Our creativity and scholarly work will contrib-
the university’s downtown campus strategy.
ute to the growth of culture and the prosperity of Edmonton as we provide the very best in
The announcement by Dave Hancock, then Min-
undergraduate education.”
ister of Innovation and Advanced Education and
~ dr. david w. atkinson, president macewan university
now Premier, gives the go-ahead for construction to begin this fall on the $153 million project. The new building will be constructed on current land holdings, which lay adjacent to the Robbins Health Learning Centre. The building will be a state-of-the-art teaching facility that will house various academic programs, including visual and
“This expansion puts students first by consolidating classes downtown. Students will have greater access to the services they need to be successful, including modern facilities, recreation centres, libraries, residence and more amenities. MacEwan University is an important partner in Campus Alberta, and I’m excited that the university will be able to achieve its vision of a single, sustainable downtown campus.” ~ dave hancock, premier
Twenty years ago an abandoned corridor of Edmonton’s downtown was transformed to create MacEwan University’s City Centre Campus. Since then, the university has expanded its breadth of programming to become a leading undergraduate institution serving nearly 14,000 full-time students in credit programs – the majority of whom are enrolled in degree-related programming. In 2005, a student residence became a part of the infrastructure that creates the university’s downtown campus community. The Robbins Health Learning Centre was completed in 2006, and in 2011 a ground-breaking administrative space, the University Service Centre (USC), opened. By providing office space to over 200 staff, the USC enabled the university to repurpose former administrative offices into additional teaching and learning spaces at City Centre Campus. The new Centre for Arts and Culture building will begin construction this fall and is set to open in September 2017.
to provide all students with the resources and services they need to be successful in their studies. City Centre Campus has long offered the majority of the institution’s academic programing while serving as the central hub for student services and amenities, student clubs, varsity athletics, retail,
M 19
libraries, faculty and administration. The first step toward consolidating to City Centre Campus is moving South Campus operations to City Centre this summer. The move will include offices, support areas, the library and classes. The next step will be moving the operations of the west-end campus once the new Centre for Arts and Culture building is completed. To safeguard the sustainability of programming at City Centre Campus, the university has purchased land surrounding City Centre Campus to ensure future enrolment growth is not inhibited. The university’s ability to acquire this land is the result of prudent fiscal management and has required no new government funding.
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
macewan sports
M 20
AIN’T LIFE GRAND Kirsta Franke is the proprietor and director of the 124 Grand Market. Now in its third year of operation, the market provides a delightful blend of popular food trucks, live entertainment, various arts and craftwork and plenty of fresh, locally produced foods.
JOURNALISM GRADUATE FINDS HER PLACE IN THE CITY SHE LOVES BY LAUNCHING FARMERS’ MARKET
Initially drawn to enrol by her interest in
November. Featuring live music, artisans, ice
photojournalism, Franke found the program
sculptors and various other entertainments,
rewarding on many fronts. “I was always
the event succeeded beyond expectations,
a great communicator,” says Franke.
drawing well over 10,000 people.
“The Journalism program really helped me improve my ability to approach new people
Despite her career moving in a different
and ideas, as well as to be more analytical
direction than her educational background,
instead of reactive.”
Franke values her educational experience at MacEwan University. “The program really
After graduating in 2010, Franke found it
teaches students how to talk to different kinds
difficult to secure full-time employment
of people. I rely on my communications skills
within her field of study. With advances in
daily, and MacEwan gave me this founda-
communication technology constantly chang-
tion.” With communication being so integral
ing the entire nature of journalism, finding
to her career, Franke is contemplating return-
a job became frustrating. “Most publications
ing to the university and working towards a
sometimes all it takes is the right condi-
were only offering unpaid internships instead
Communications degree, though that is but
tions for the character of a community
of actual jobs,” remarks Franke. “The experi-
one of many goals that this dynamic young
to truly shine.
ence would be great, but there wasn’t a lot of
woman is entertaining. Others include estab-
opportunity there.”
lishing a farm camp to educate children on
Journalism graduate Kirsta
Franke (‘10) provided such an opportunity for the 124th street area of Edmonton, where she
the food system, as well as various other
established the 124 Grand Market in May of
Not one to sit idle, Franke began working at
2012, attracting a great deal of attention to this
a restaurant on 124th street and soon began
increasingly hip district of Alberta’s capital city.
to fall in love with the burgeoning neighbour-
With Edmontonians magazine listing Franke
hood. With encouragement from a co-worker,
as one of its Sizzling 20 Under 30 in 2013, it is
At present, Franke is the proprietor and direc-
Franke began volunteering for the 124th Street
clear that her accomplishments are just the be-
tor of the 124 Grand Market, while she’s also
Business Association, deepening her relation-
ginning of a very promising career. While she
employed by the 124th Street Business As-
ship with the community. Recognizing the
does entertain the idea of one day experiencing
sociation as its marketing and events director.
lack of nearby grocery stores or other produce
life in another city, her heart most certainly
Now in its third year of operation, the market
vendors, she was then struck by the idea of
belongs to Edmonton. “This is a city made of
provides a delightful blend of popular food
starting a different kind of farmers’ market.
movers, shakers and builders. I realized that
trucks, live entertainment, various arts and
After sharing her idea with members of the
if I wanted to make my career in Edmonton,
craftwork, and plenty of fresh, locally produced
Business Association, they enthusiastically
I would have to build it myself.” Her efforts
foods. However, what really distinguishes the
granted Franke the funding needed to make
have not only secured her a place in the city
124 Grand Market is its Thursday evening
it a reality, with the community flocking to
she loves but have also made life just a little bit
hours of operation. “I was never one to wake up
participate in the new venture. “I didn’t antici-
grander for the entire community.
early enough on Saturday mornings to go buy
pate how successful the market was going to
fresh produce,” jokes Franke, who conceived of
be. I guess it goes to show how the area really
the idea of an evening market while working in
needed something like this.”
local food initiatives.
the restaurant industry. With many of the city’s food enthusiasts keeping the same working
With her market making such a positive
hours, there was definitely a demand for
impact on the community, Franke was ap-
such a venture.
proached by the Business Association and offered the job of marketing and events
While Franke’s present career centres
director. This role sees Franke involved
around marketing and communications,
in community relations, committees and
her educational journey began within
planning special events such as the winter
MacEwan University’s Journalism program.
street festival, All is Bright on 124, this past
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 21
Michelle Stevenson Public Relations, 2000 If I could dine alone with anyone from any period in history, it would be:
If I could be one age for the rest of my life it would be:
my grandmas
14
One book everyone should read:
Cats or dogs?
animal farm, george orwell
dogs
One movie everyone should see:
Greatest accomplishment since graduating from MacEwan University:
to kill a mockingbird
One song that would be on the soundtrack of my life: “radioactive” by imagine dragons
Favourite place on campus: gymnasium
Favourite place traveled: costa rica
One thing I never leave home without: iphone
tbd
If I could eliminate one insect from the earth, it would be: centipedes
My favorite childhood television show: fraggle rock
My MacEwan University experience in one word: relevant
ALUMNI
TERM LIFE INSURANCE
Remember when you had no cares in this world?
macewan macewan business news
M 22
It’s the same feeling you get, young or not so young, when you know you’re protected — especially when you have people who count on you. Consider Alumni Term Life Insurance, whether you’re looking for new coverage or adding to an existing one, and enjoy exclusive low rates for you and your family. No worries. We’ve got you covered.
Visit www.manulife.com/macewanmag to learn more or call toll-free 1-888-913-6333
Underwritten by
The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company (Manulife Financial). Manulife, Manulife Financial, the Manulife Financial For Your Future logo and the Block Design are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license. Exclusions and limitations apply.
GRAD SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Jesse Sallis,
Bachelor of Commerce, 2010
when jesse sallis (bcom,
’14) walked
through the doors at macewan univer-
An entrepreneur at heart, Sallis will likely
excellence and has more than 400 chapters at
follow that path after graduate school. “I want
colleges and universities around the world.
to travel, see the world and experience new things, but I can’t tell you where I’m going
“It was the last year of my degree, and I want-
to be in five years. I think that’s exciting –
ed to get more involved and engaged–to try to
I could make my way back to Alberta or find
give back and make the school and community
myself in a tiny country on the other side of
around me a better place,” says Sallis. So, he
the world. I like being outside of my comfort
applied for—and was awarded—the presidency
zone and investing in experiences because
of MacEwan University’s Golden Key chapter.
that’s what really changes you as a person.” As he was researching graduate schools, Sallis
sity to begin studying in the bachelor of
After travelling to Austria on a student ex-
discovered a Hult scholarship specifically
was getting through the semester. Almost four
change trip in the second year of his Bachelor
for Golden Key members. “When I looked at
years later and a degree in hand, his goals are on
of Commerce program, Sallis was inspired to
Hult, I found it was really unique and aligned
a completely different scale. Recently awarded
pursue international business and motivated to
perfectly with my goals.” Sallis added Hult
a prestigious scholarship to Hult International
get top marks. Getting excellent grades resulted
to his list of graduate school possibilities and
Business School, Sallis will make his way to
in an invitation to join the MacEwan Univer-
applied for the scholarship. “The reason I
London in September for an intensive one-year
sity chapter of the Golden Key International
chose Hult wasn’t because of the scholarship,
Master of International Business program.
Honour Society, which focuses on academic
but getting it was the icing on the cake.”
commerce program in
2010, his only focus
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 23
FITNESS FEATURE TIPS TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE GOALS
the recommended ranges for intakes. See the
and protein. Save simple carbohydrates for
chart for a breakdown of what these ranges are.
during and immediately after your activity.
Rule #2: Calories ingested should equal calo-
Rule #6: Manage electrolytes like sodium,
ries expended to maintain weight.
potassium, magnesium and calcium. Adults have been shown to sweat up to two to four
veteran
litres of fluid per hour in hot environments
Veterans have gone through the rookie stage
and at high intensity exercise levels.
and are ready for the next step. This includes
nutrition
macewan health
M 24
working towards a weight goal, running a 5
Rule #7: Within 30 minutes of your activity,
or 10km race, joining a Zumba or yoga class,
replenish glycogen stores and repair muscle
or taking part in a Corporate Challenge event.
damage by eating a snack high in both protein
Ever wonder what your fitness level is? Are
and carbohydrates but low in fat.
you a rookie, a veteran, or a hall of famer?
Rule #3: Long-term weight loss success is best
By tailoring your nutrition to your activity
achieved by increasing caloric expenditure by
Why the rules? It’s all about playing fairly and
level, you’ll be on your way to building a
250 calories per day while decreasing caloric
giving your body the best opportunity for suc-
healthier you. Find your level and review
intake by the same amount.
cess and health throughout your life. To help implement these rules, learn about each of the
the rules of play. Rule #4: Hydrate before, during and after exer-
macronutrients, what the best sources of them
know your game
cise, aiming to drink one to three litres of water
are and how they function in the body.
rookie
per day, particularly in hot or very cold weather.
Rookies should focus on striving for optimum
eat like a champion
health, absence of disease, more activity and
hall of famer
simple versus complex carbohydrates
less sick time. Rookies take pride in their
Health is a priority for hall of famers, but
Carbohydrates are our main source of energy.
active daily living, meeting the Canadian rec-
so is taking on big or intense challenges.
Fruit, vegetables and grains are good sources
ommendations for physical activity, which for
Examples include physique competitions,
of starch and dietary fiber, providing us with
adults aged 18-64 years means accumulating
marathons, ironman triathlons and provincial
complex carbohydrates. These foods tend to
at least 150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-
or national events.
be lower in calories but higher in nutrients (vitamins and minerals) than simple carbohy-
intensity aerobic physical activity per week. Rule #5: Fuel up two hours prior to activity,
drates, such as sugar. We refer to this as nutri-
Rule #1: Eat daily from all three macronutri-
consuming a small meal that is high in com-
ent density. Regardless of the type consumed,
ents (fats, proteins and carbohydrates) using
plex carbohydrates and low in both fat
carbohydrates are metabolized to form glucose
for immediate use, then anabolized to form
• Expand your variety of fruits and vegetables,
glycogen and stored in the liver and muscles
and try to eat from the whole colour spectrum
for later use.
• Choose high-quality proteins often
complete versus incomplete proteins
• Snack every one to one and a half hours,
(e.g., legumes, whey, dairy) Proteins of animal origin are considered
dividing your intake into four to six small
complete proteins because they provide us with
meals per day.
all essential amino acids (building blocks of
• Improve your macronutrient sources;
protein) that our bodies cannot synthesize from
for example, choose steel cut oats instead
within. We consume them from food sources
of quick oats, or whole grain rice instead
such as meat, fish, milk, eggs and cheese.
of instant rice
Foods that are low in one or more of the essential amino acids are considered incomplete
And, of course, seek the expertise of nutrition-
protein sources. When consuming incomplete
al coaching from either a Registered Dietician
proteins, it is important to combine foods to fa-
(RD), an International Olympic Committee
cilitate optimal amino acid intake. For example,
Sports Nutritionist (IOC – SN), or a Certified
rather than eating rice alone, mix it with beans
Sports Nutritionist from the International So-
and squash or beans and corn to yield a more
ciety of Sports Nutrition (CISSN) to optimize
complete protein intake.
your daily nutrition.
saturated versus unsaturated fats
Susie Materi is a Bachelor of Kinesiology
Fats are crucial for our well-being and stress
graduate with a Masters in Motor Learn-
management, contributing to hormone, joint
ing & Motor Development. She is a certified
and brain health. Good sources of fat include
strength and conditioning coach with the
unsaturated fats such as vegetable oils, includ-
NSCA, an NCCP II Weightlifting coach, and
ing olive, canola, and soybean oil, as well as
a current student of CISSN. She coaches for
coconut oil and various seed oils, like sesame.
the High Performance Research and Training
Limit butter, hard margarine, shortening, and
Centre at the University of Alberta, ASDC-CR,
lard (animal-sourced fats), selecting polyun-
and is the corporate wellness manager for
saturated fats as often as possible. Remember,
MacEwan University.
if you are a meat eater, you are already consuming saturated fats via your protein sources.
Michelle Murphy is Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Science graduate and a current student
When you are following the rules, playing
of the IOC diploma in Sports Nutrition. She
injury-free and looking for game-winning
serves as both an academic advisor and nutri-
strategies, remember the following:
tion coach at MacEwan University.
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 25
GOING THE DISTANCE “I am so passionate about palliative care,” remarks Lisa Bailey. “People often think it’s a very depressing line of work, but it allows you to meet so many amazing individuals. Making this time just a little easier for them is so beneficial and rewarding.
macewan health
M 26
PASSION FOR PALLIATIVE CARE BRINGS REGISTERED NURSE BACK TO CAMPUS
commencing studies in the nursing program
Under this modern yet increasingly popular
at Calgary’s Foothills Hospital, she felt
educational model, Bailey was able to excel at
right at home.
her studies, graduating in November of 2013 and earning two scholarships along the way.
After a few years of intense study, Bailey gradu-
To top it all off, she was also awarded the
ated in 1994 and proceeded to work in the field.
Dean’s Medal for Academic Excellence,
She was introduced to the world of palliative
an award granted by each faculty to the
care upon taking a side job, and she soon
student graduating with the highest academic
developed a strong passion that would direct
standing. “I was so shocked and surprised,”
the course of her career. “I just loved working
says Bailey. “I always felt that the coursework
with palliative care patients and their families,”
was so valuable to my profession, so it was
remarks Bailey. “It is such a privilege to be
already a very rewarding experience. But being
advances in medical science and meth-
allowed into this part of their lives, while seeing
awarded the Dean’s Medal was really special
ods of treatment are constantly alter-
the love and strength of families and friends.
and such a great feeling.”
ing the healthcare industry.
It is quite an honour.”
Registered
With such a positive learning experience under
nurse and graduate of MacEwan University’s Post-Basic Nursing Practice certificate Lisa
The next several years saw Bailey working
her belt, Bailey is excited to further her educa-
Bailey can attest to this fact. Her passion for
diligently. Yet her desire for knowledge and
tion, with her long-term plan being to achieve
learning and continual professional develop-
professional development had her yearning
a master’s degree. “I will always be a lifelong
ment directed Bailey to further her education
for a return to a more institutional learning
learner,” she says. “I just enjoy discovering
well into her career, with distance learning
environment. After some research, Bailey took
new things all the time. You’d be amazed at
paving the way.
the leap and enrolled in MacEwan University’s
what you can learn if you just give it a try.”
Post Basic Nursing Practice: Palliative Care Since 2005, Bailey has been employed as a staff
certificate program. “I really wanted to get more
nurse at Red Deer Hospital within the oncology
education,” she explains. “Things change all the
and palliative care unit. Palliative care is an area
time in the nursing profession, be it in research,
of health that focuses on relieving the suffering of
policies, etc. Distance learning seemed like a
patients undergoing treatment of curable or in-
great option since it allowed me to learn a great
curable illnesses, as well as patients nearing the
deal without totally changing my life.”
M 27
end of life. “I am so passionate about palliative care,” remarks Bailey. “People often think it is a
Despite the drastically different learning
very depressing line of work, but it allows you to
environment, Bailey quickly felt very comfort-
meet so many amazing individuals. Making this
able with studying online. Through phone
time just a little easier for them is so beneficial
calls, emails, and web-based message board
and rewarding.”
discussions, she was able to confidently tackle her coursework while feeling very much con-
Although Bailey’s enthusiasm for nursing is
nected to other students within the program.
evident, her entry into the field happened
While this sense of online community was a
somewhat by chance. Originally wanting to
great help, much of her motivation also came
pursue a career in sports psychology, she
from the course material itself. “Every class I
spent a year studying physical education at
took had a direct relevance to my career.
the University of Calgary before realizing it
For someone like myself who had been work-
wasn’t the right fit for her. She then made
ing in the field for several years, it was really
the choice to try nursing, with the idea
motivating to see the practical application of
that it might provide a stepping stone into
everything I was learning.”
the medical field. However, shortly after
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
ALL IN THE FAMILY Supply Chain Management Graduate Returns to Family Business macewan arts news
M 28
Dynaline Industries is a wholesale distributor
Davidson praises the value of the practicum
of privately branded auto, farm and industrial
component in preparing students for a success-
products with a supply network that spans much
ful career. In her case, she was hired by Bantrel,
of the globe. “Our company is all about forging
a Calgary-based engineering, procurement and
relationships with our customers,” says Da-
construction company. Davidson was hired
vidson. “We try to find ways to make their jobs
as a quality analyst and quickly made a strong
easier, and that is why they want to do business
impression, with Bantrel making it clear that
with us.” Whether dealing with product vendors
they were interested in her remaining on staff
in China or India, or with small businesses on
permanently after her graduation from the
the Canadian prairies, the family dynamic of
university in 2007.
this business makes customers feel valued, allowing the company to grow steadily while
While it was natural for Davidson to study the
retaining clients over the long term.
industry within which her family business oper-
for jennifer davidson, working within
ates, it was becoming less certain whether she
the family business has instilled an
Having grown up watching the family busi-
would return to Dynaline. Bantrel recognized
understanding of the value of a work-
ness grow from humble beginnings, Davidson
her skills and certainly offered a great deal of
place that empowers and supports its
quickly learned the value of hard work from
opportunity. However, the combined impact
staff.
an early age, with her summers and weekends
of the economic downturn of 2008 and the
Industries, where the family-oriented corpo-
spent working in the warehouse or answering
distance from loved ones made the choice to
rate culture has allowed both the employees
phones as a teenager. This work ethic made
return to Dynaline an easy one, with the posi-
and owners to thrive within a positive and
higher education a priority for her, and choos-
tion of operations manager becoming available
nurturing working environment. As a gradu-
ing MacEwan University was the next step in
at the right time.
ate of MacEwan University’s Supply Chain
her professional development. “MacEwan really
Management and International Business
seemed like a great fit for me, with smaller
Each day sees Davidson organizing much of
program, Davidson works as operations
classes being quite appealing. All of us in the
what makes the Dynaline machine function.
manager, overseeing much of what makes
Supply Chain Management program became a
Moving numerous products across vast distanc-
this Edmonton-based company succeed in
very tight group of friends, with many of us still
es can be quite complicated, and it’s not without
today’s marketplace.
friends today.”
the occasional hiccup. Recently, a transport
This is certainly the case at Dynaline
strike in Vancouver required Davidson to be
members in discussions of company goals and
creative, finding alternate shipping routes
achievements. Additionally, staff can partici-
recognized by Edmontonians magazine,
through Seattle and Prince Rupert. Other chal-
pate in wellness programs that provide funding
which named her as one of the city’s Sizzling
lenges can include everything from constantly
for gym memberships, nutrition plans or a
Twenty under 30. “I was pretty honoured to
fluctuating exchange rates impacting profit
multitude of other health-promoting initiatives.
be included in the Sizzling Twenty under 30.
margins to simply finding the right warehouse
Furthermore, employees that demonstrate
I didn’t know until afterwards that hundreds of
staff. “My job is different every day,” remarks
particular initiative can be granted a peer-nom-
people were submitted, so being chosen made
Davidson. “It keeps me on my toes, and that’s
inated Above and Beyond Award, recognizing
me feel pretty special,” Davidson explains.
why I love it.”
their value to those they work with.
Much of her job satisfaction is credited to
Ensuring that staff members are both appreci-
much she’s managed to achieve so early in her
returning to such a positive work environment,
ated and in good health has been a huge factor
career, it’s safe to say that she’s only just begun.
which she now plays a key role in nurturing.
in Dynaline’s success. Notably, sales in May
Her business may be all in the family, but she’ll
Evidence of this can be seen in the quarterly
2013 was record breaking for Dynalime Indus-
be making waves that span the globe.
“fun days,” which involve group sports or scav-
tries, an accomplishment Davidson credits as
enger hunts, while her father involves all staff
being a real team effort.
Davidson’s accomplishments were recently
Though Davidson remains modest about how
3. Make contact. With LinkedIN, searching for and connecting with a potential mentor is easier than ever before. Joining associations and attending professional gatherings and conferences are also great ways to identify a potential mentor. 4. Schedule a meeting. Discuss your objectives in developing a possible mentorship. Be clear about your goals, time commitment and follow-up steps. Ask questions and listen to ensure both parties understand the terms.
CAREER TIPS, TRICKS AND TRENDS
Also find out if there is something you can
Here are a few steps to get you started:
help with as the mentee. Mentorship should be a two-way street where you can give a
1. Identify your expectations. What do you specifically want to work on, or which skills
fresh perspective to the mentor.
would you like to develop? Think about
from Karly Gerlach, employer relations
your goals and objectives, as this will help
5. Maintain and persevere. Set specific topics,
specialist at MacEwan University
you choose the right mentor and make the
meet regularly and agree to share updates
Career Services.
most of the relationship.
of achievements or expertise. Don’t let the relationship fizzle, keep track of your goals
whether you are starting your first job
2. Do your research. When looking for a suit-
and revisit them often.
or you’re a seasoned professional in your
able mentor, reflect on what success
field, you can benefit from having a ca-
means to you. Whom do you admire and
Interested in mentoring? Career Services
reer mentor.
why? How did his or her career progress?
hosts numerous events throughout the
sound intensive, but it’s about developing a
If your career hero is not accessible,
year. To get involved, please contact
purposeful relationship to inspire growth,
look for someone with an equivalent back-
careerservices@macewan.ca.
change and professional development through
ground in your community.
Working with a mentor might
sharing knowledge and resources. alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 29
have news to share?
Let your classmates know what you have been
High-resolution photos are welcome and
up to by sharing your stories and successes
will be used when space permits. We reserve
in the CLASSifieds. Submissions can be sent
the right to edit submissions for content,
by email to alumni@macewan.ca
length and clarity.
or by mail to: Alumni Relations and Services, MacEwan University, PO Box 1726, Edmonton, AB T5J 2P2
kim wheeler
(Journalism, ‘95)
Kim Wheeler began her journalism career at
Performing,” in Dance, Somatics and Spiri-
She’s also putting her artistic talents to work
tualties: Contemporary Sacred Narratives,
and pursuing a painting career.
the Edmonton Journal in 1994 and worked
Leading Voices in the Field, which is due to
for the Canadian Press/Broadcast News before
be published this spring.
keting and publicity. In 2008 she joined CBC
This summer, Naomi will present her re-
and certificate in Human Resource Manage-
Radio One and produced four seasons of ReVi-
search at the World Dance Alliance Global
ment, Cheryl McKay has enjoyed a career
sion Quest, for which she won a silver medal at
Summit in France in a panel presentation
in human resources, specializing in labour
New York Festivals. Kim was also short-listed
entitled Interdisciplinary Approaches to
relations. As the adjudication advisor for the
for a Prix Italia for her work on the series,
Learning and Teaching for Contemporary
Government of the Northwest Territories,
Indian Summer, which told stories and shared
Dancers in Conservatoire Training.
Cheryl represents the government’s interests at arbitrations and human rights adjudica-
songs of Aboriginal Canadian musicians.
macewan news
(Legal Assistant, ‘00)
Coupled with her Legal Assistant diploma
leaving journalism to pursue a career in mar-
M 30
cheryl mckay
After graduating from MacEwan University,
tion hearings in addition to working with the
On CBC Radio 3, Kim created and developed
Naomi furthered her education, receiving her
unions that represent the public servants of
three seasons of Ab-Originals, a weekly pod-
BFA Dance in 1998 from Simon Fraser Uni-
the Northwest Territories. The skills Cheryl
cast of the hottest Aboriginal music in Canada.
versity, and her MA Choreography in 2004
acquired at MacEwan University continue to
It was the precursor for CBC Music’s Aborigi-
from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music
benefit her current role.
nal music community, where Kim developed
and Dance, where she also has been a senior
digital content and programmed a 24/7 digital
lecturer since 2005.
heather reeve
(Travel, ‘02)
Excited to move back to her hometown,
music channel. She currently sits on the board (Dance, ‘96)
Heather Reeve is now working with students
for Aboriginal Music Manitoba, which presents
dustin anderson
Aboriginal Music Week each year and for
Dustin Anderson is a professional children’s
in the same high school she graduated from.
which Kim also works as a music programmer.
performer touring nationally with the original
She enjoys being a part of students’ educa-
After leaving CBC, Kim launched her own com-
state-of-the-art anti-bullying presentation,
tion and proudly shares her success as a
pany, KIMAGE Entertainment, which manages
Message in a Bottle. Drawing from the high
MacEwan University graduate.
musicians and writers and provides publicity to
quality training he received while attend-
clients across Canada.
ing MacEwan University, Dustin entertains,
juanita onyschuk (née schilperoort)
engages and inspires young audiences.
(Office Administration & Secretary Studies, ‘93)
dr . naomi lefebvre sell
For the past five years, Juanita Onyschuk has
(Dance, ‘96) (Design Arts, ‘74)
worked at the Queen Elizabeth II hospital in
Dr. Naomi Lefebvre Sell recently graduated
heather keenan
from the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Mu-
As one of the first students in the Art and
Grande Prairie, having previously worked with
sic and Dance in London, England with a PhD
Design diploma program, Heather Keenan
Greenways Podiatric Services Inc. for over
in Creative Practice (Dance). Her thesis title
left her mark on the Centre for the Arts and
ten years. She is interested in upgrading her
was Dharmakaya: An Investigation Into the
Communications campus, helping to build
current skills and plans to register in some
Impact of Mindful Meditation on Dancers’
and set up some of the specialized rooms,
business administration classes.
Creative Processes in a Choreographic Envi-
such as the darkroom for photography
ronment. Her research is being published as
students. Since then, she’s gone on to work
a co-authored chapter with Professor Sarah
as an administrative assistant in the Faculty
Whatley entitled “Dancing and Flourishing:
of Human and Social Development in the
Mindful Meditation in Dance Making and
Dean’s Office at the University of Victoria.
M 31
“Summer” Jasper Park Lodge
Do you have a talent for photography? The alumnus who submits the published photo will receive a
Aminah Syed
$100 gift certificate for any campus mstore. Photographs can be submitted to alumni@macewan.ca.
Journalism, ‘06
For more details visit MacEwan.ca/Alumni
alumni news summer
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
ALUMNI RELATIONS AND SERVICES
Out of university. Into the community. Our grads aspire and, in turn, inspire. MacEwan.ca/Alumni If undeliverable, please return to: Alumni Relations and Services, MacEwan University, City Centre Campus , P.O. Box 1796, Edmonton, AB, Canada T5J 2P2
PUBLICATION AGREEMENT #40063489